This is the only episode I can recall which Thelma didn't appear in. That wasn't good. JJ and Keith don't appear either. Despite this many cast members being missing, the episode is quite powerful. Penny's natural mother reappears, with a scheme for taking Penny away from Willona. Just like her Season 5 appearances, Chip Fields is excellent as Penny's abusive mother. Willona's boyfriend is really an actor hired by Penny's mother. The party scene features some weird people, as well as Janet Jackson's brothers singing in the background. Ms. Gordon thinks she can frame Willona, until it's discovered that her conversation has been recorded on tape. The last scene, where Ms. Gordon finally gives up, is very emotional. Despite the monster she is depicted as, the woman is crying and trembling. There was definitely something to be read between the lines. Chip Fields, as this character, was an example of appearances being deceiving. When you look at her, you see an attractive woman. It can be hard to believe that what's inside of someone can be so opposite to their appearance. In any case, she got to me. It might have been only because of her pretty face, but I felt sorry for this woman, even though I shouldn't have.
Review of A Matter of Mothers
